Cataracts, Pediatric - Congenital

Cataract, a condition in which the lens of the eye turns cloudy, has long been the most common cause of blindness in the world. However, it is uncommon in children. In a healthy eye, the lens focuses incoming light onto the light-sensitive retina. But, because the eye's lens is opaque, light is not transmitted to the retina. In many cases, the condition is treatable if surgery is performed soon after diagnosis.

Diagnosis:

Cataracts are diagnosed by an examination of the eye. The opaque lens is clearly visible to the doctor.

Treatment:

Cataracts are removed surgically when the impairment begins to interfere with daily activities or visual development. Wilmer surgeons have improved treatment by devising procedures that require smaller incisions, reducing healing time and complications.